Day Trips from Alexandria
← All Alexandria day tripsDay Trips from Alexandria: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Alexandria, VA. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Alexandria
Old Main Streets: Maryland Scenic Byway
Emmitsburg, MD 21727
Just 1 hr 25 min from Alexandria, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
The Point Overlook
VA 22827, USA
Just 2 hrs 23 min from Alexandria, rated 4.9 stars by 439 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Range View Overlook
VA 22747, USA
Just 1 hr 51 min from Alexandria, rated 4.9 stars by 327 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Piedmont Overlook
VA 22643, USA
Just 1 hr 10 min from Alexandria, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Rockytop Overlook
VA 22827, USA
Just 2 hrs 30 min from Alexandria, rated 4.9 stars by 195 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic overlook
Afton, VA 22920
Just 2 hrs 31 min from Alexandria, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Overlook 1
VA 22102, USA
Just 37 min from Alexandria, rated 4.9 stars by 247 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Hogwallow Flats Overlook
VA 22640, USA
Just 1 hr 45 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars by 173 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Hogback Overlook
VA 22650, USA
Just 1 hr 57 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars by 441 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
The Oaks Overlook
VA 22827, USA
Just 2 hrs 19 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Signal Knob Overlook
VA 22630, USA
Just 1 hr 30 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars by 466 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Shenandoah Valley Overlook
VA 22630, USA
Just 1 hr 24 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars by 712 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Alexandria
What are the best scenic drives near Alexandria, VA?
The best scenic drives near Alexandria include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Alexandria?
Most scenic drives near Alexandria range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Alexandria?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Alexandria, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Alexandria?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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